COVID-19 Parenting Guide: Tips for Getting Your Toddlers to Wear Masks

July 22, 2020

Amid COVID-19 and the fluctuation of nation-wide lockdowns, the CDC has called on citizens to wear masks to prevent the spread of the virus. In fact, cloth face coverings are shown to help slow and stop the spread of the virus – especially when used within a community. For many of you, getting your little ones to wear a mask can be a daunting task in and of itself. We understand that your kids may be anxious or uncomfortable with wearing masks. However, it is becoming increasingly important that your littles become used to mask-wearing, especially since they will be required at many schools this coming year. Don’t fret – we have tips and tricks to help normalize mask-wearing during quarantine and make it more fun for everyone!

Have your kid choose the mask they want (or DIY it!)

Allow your little to choose the reusable cloth face mask they want and show them an array of fun patterns to make it exciting and creative. They are more likely to want to wear a mask if it has their favorite colors or is branded with their favorite superhero! If you’re on the look-out for high-quality kid masks with a variety of patterns, check out our very own #SpreadLove Fabric Face Mask in Chambray, Stonewash, and Rainbows & Clouds to fit every personality. These reusable cloth masks are made to be breathable and comfortable for everyday wear, with outer and lining layers crafted with 100% organic cotton double weave muslin. With an adjustable elastic knot, our masks will cover your little’s nose and mouth perfectly and protect them from viral infections.

If you don’t want to buy a reusable cloth facemask, DIY your own with help from your little one and you have a fun family activity! We just know your little will love picking out the pattern for the fabric! We created a step-by-step guide for making the facemasks, check out our video tutorial below to follow along.

Model Mask Wearing Yourself

Another great way to encourage your kid to wear masks is to set an example for them. If they see you being comfortable in a mask and going about your day as normal, this will ease their anxiety and make them feel more comfortable. When wearing your mask, show them non-facial signs of happiness and comfort, like verbal confirmations and positive gestures, like a thumbs up or a high-five.

Make Mask-Wearing a Family Rule

Because masks are likely to be required in school and after school activities, make mask wearing a rule for going out in public. On every outing, make sure to remind them to put on their reusable cloth face mask and keep them on. Treat the masks as any other clothing essential! Just like your little can’t go out in public without a pair of shoes, make sure they know they can’t go out without a mask. While they will likely struggle with mask-wearing at first, getting them in the habit of wearing masks as a family rule will make the transition to school much easier. If your little is 2-years-old or younger, encourage them to put the masks on dolls and play with them, since mask-wearing is not recommended for this age group.

In these undoubtedly uncertain times, mask-wearing is essential to keep your family and local community protected from the virus. We hope that these pieces of advice will lead to happy, comfortable, and stylish mask-wearing during this transition!

Shop our variety of masks here for your whole family.